Publisher's Description
These betting slips were discarded in and
around many betting shops (71 at the time
of publication) in the borough of Hackney in
north-east London. The average number of
betting shops in other London boroughs is 23.
Each of these papers began as hope, were
shaped by loss or defeat, then cast aside.
These new forms perhaps now possess a state
of mind, shaped by nervous tension and grief.
After these images were made, little autopsies
were performed on the papers to reveal the
failed bets held within.
If betting shops move into places previously
occupied by banks or solicitors, they are
classed as financial services and don’t have to
apply for any special permit. In such numbers,
they are beginning to feel like a burden around
a borough that is trying to improve itself and
the lives of its residents, and to shake off its
bad reputation.

To exhibit this book, remove the book block
from the outer cover, expand the pages and
hang from nails or small hooks using the
holes provided.

First edition, 3000 available
with three different covers

About the limited edition:

Special edition of 100 signed and numbered copies in a box containing a bromide print and text stencil.